Akiyama addressed the situation with Doering missing the upcoming Champion Carnival with Atsushi Aoki making the bid to be the "Evolution" replacement.

Akiyama stated that that there was still some glimmer of hope that Doering may still compete, but due to him being told to undergo further treatment, with chemotherapy, it is best for him to not compete.

Doering missing the tournament is a setback for the promotion, as this was to be his return since last July, but Akiyama was waiting until Doering gave an answer himself on the situation. Akiyama wished him the best of luck in his recovery and hopes that one day soon that he can return to the ring.

With Doering now out there is a void left in the CC in which his fellow "Evolution" teammate Atsushi Aoki stated his intention to compete. The World Junior Heavyweight Champion acknowledged that he is giving up a great size against the heavyweights, but that there is an absence of "Evolution" in the league due to Suwama and Doering both being out action for the time being. Aoki stated that he is more than ready to compete and will do his very best, not only to prove something for himself but for the rest of the juniors in All Japan.

All Japan stated that they are currently in the process of shifting things around in the Carnival and that they will announce the updated event cards soon.